Hey everyone,
I have a 2001 F150 and I'm looking at upgrading to a newer one. What I'm looking for is about an '05 FX4 5.4L extended cab with around 100,000 miles. I'd also like a stepside if I can find one. I know my way around a truck pretty well, but I was wondering if there are any specific problems I should be on the lookout for with these years of trucks. Besides the obvious cam phaser problems, I'm just looking for some tips. Thanks!

P.S. It's my first post, take it easy on me

 

Make sure the spark plugs have been changed. They are known to break off in the heads. It's not a big deal if you have the Lisle tool, most of the time. I changed mine on a warm engine with an impact and all 8 came out at ~70K miles. I changed my father's using the same procedure at 58K and broke 3. The Lisle tool removed them without issue. Both trucks ran better and picked up a MPG or two.

 

The 5.4 seems to have more issues than the 4.6. Some will say the 4.6 is gutless. I went from a stock 5.4 to a 4.6 and yes, there is a power drop. Not so bad with a tuner tho.
The truck you are looking for is now abouty 9 years old. If it has not been cared for very well, the Wisconsin winters and salt will be taking their toll on the undercarraige. So, whatever you find, crawl under for a good look. My 2000 f150 ran good and looked good from the top. Underneath it was in bad shape as crossmembers and other frame parts were severely damaged.
I went to the southwest and got a 2004, 4.6 liter with low mileage and no rust.

 

So if I find a truck, subframes and everything check out, and there is no cam phaser knocking you're saying I should still change the spark plugs? Thanks for the advice! Anything else I should look for?

 

Injector noise. Clunk in rear end when turning. Check the engine compartment..how often was oil changed? Does it have service records? Carfax? Last time transmission was serviced..rear end service. Dig into it..don't be me who bought the first one that I saw. Lol..the 5.4 is fine..never let me down..service here service there..its a truck. Just dig deep get info and if something sounds fishy..go elsewhere best of luck!

 

Thanks! I'm definitely a big fan of the 5.4. Mine has just about 252,000 on it and still going strong. What would the clunk in the rear end while turning be?

 

Clunk would be a toasted limited slip

 

I just went through the B.S. of replacing the posi in my '01 so I'll definitely look out for that. Thanks!